Effect of maternal parenting style on child behaviour and its management strategies in dental office: A pilot study

Abstract

Aim To evaluate the effect of maternal parenting style on child behaviour and consequent management strategies in dental office. Materials and Methods Eighty child–mother pairs were included in the study. Before the start of the treatment, Maternal parenting style was evaluated utilising Primary Caregivers Practices Report, while child behaviour along with his/her perception towards dental treatment were observed using Frankl Behaviour Rating Scale and Sound Eye Motor scale, respectively. Also the behaviour management strategy utilised for the child was noted and its correlation to both parenting style and child behaviour was evaluated. Results A statistically significant correlation ( p-value = 0.00) was observed between the maternal parenting style and child behaviour displayed during dental treatment. Also, a positive correlation ( p-value = 0.00) was observed between behaviour displayed by the children and behaviour management strategy used in the dental operatory. Conclusion The clinicians can predict the type of behaviour the child might display and the behaviour management strategy to be utilised for a specific child based on the maternal parenting style.